Delhi. Capital of India. City of power. City of dreams.
But I read Delhi Hindi news today — the news that doesn't make it to English channels. Here are 5 headlines. After reading them, you might want to leave.
1. Pollution Havoc — Schools Closed, Children Got Asthma
Delhi's AQI today: 350. Schools closed for 3 days. A 7-year-old was hospitalised. His mother said: "Even breathing has become difficult now."
The headline: "Severe air pollution."
The truth: It's severe every year. Nothing changes.
2. Family of Road Accident Victim Lives on Roadside
A young man died in a road accident. He was the only earner. His family was evicted from their rented room. Now they live on the roadside. Where he died.
The headline: "Accident victim's family in distress."
The truth: The city has no place for the poor.
3. Bakery Worker Studies at Night — Wants to Be IAS
He wakes at 4 AM. Works till 8 PM. Then studies from 9 PM to 1 AM.
The headline: "Bakery worker aims for UPSC."
The truth: He sleeps 3 hours a night. He will make it. Or die trying.
4. Chain Snatching in Metro — People Caught Thief, Police Let Him Go
A woman's chain was snatched on a crowded metro. Passengers caught the thief. Handed him to police. The police let him go. "Juvenile," they said.
The headline: "Chain snatcher arrested."
The truth: Arrested. Then released. The woman never got her chain back.
5. Delhi's Streets Have Lights — But Also Fear
A woman was followed last night. She ran. She reached a police booth. The policeman said: "Why are you running?"
The headline: "Woman alleges stalking."
The truth: The stalker was never caught.
Why Delhi Breaks My Heart
Delhi is my city. I love it. But love means seeing the truth. Children can't breathe. Families live on roadsides. Boys work 16 hours and study 4. Thieves are caught and released. Women run from shadows.